The Schools Auction Idol competition was created by the Society of Auctioneers and Appraisers (SA) Inc and is designed for current students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to enter a state-wide competition representing their school. Each student conducts an auction for a property of their choice in their internal school heat. The highest point scorer becomes school representative and subsequently goes onto participate in the state school auction idol heats where the top 6 compete in final. This competition is held annually in conjunction with the state Senior auctioneering competition (News Australia SA Golden Gavel Awards).

Students receive school certificate points if the module is included in existing approved subjects, such as drama, legal studies etc.

Practicing auctioneers as mentors provide guidance to students and teaching them life time skills in public speaking and confidence. Mentors work closely with subject teachers to deliver an interactive program. This competition established in 2007 is an initiative of past president and Golden Gavel winner Lindsay Warner that has provided and will continue to provide a unique platform for students to be introduced to Real Estate and Auctioneering as a career choice. Workbooks and mentors guidelines are available on our website.

In 2007 News Australia SA GOLDEN GAVEL Trustee Mr. Lindsay Warner FSAA introduced the inaugural SCHOOL AUCTION IDOL COMPETITION where the concept had evolved after we were given the charter of succession planning by introducing the fantastic profession of Auctioneering to school students.

In consultation with Catholic Education, Education SA and TAFE we developed the format and workbooks so that students who participate receive credits towards their SACE certificate.

As part of this Event, students appeared conducting auctions at The Adelaide Fringe and live on Radio 5AA and received media coverage on Channel 10 News and continual coverage in Messenger Community News from the Launch in February right through to the Finals in May and beyond!

Our team of Senior Auctioneers worked with students as mentors “Supporting excellence in vocational and technical education in schools”

The Grand final of the Auction Idols saw 3 students creating a piece of history and legacy representing their Schools, Brighton Secondary School, Rostrevor College and St Dominic’s Priory College where we were witness to our up and coming community leaders.

The Society views the School Auction Idol Competition coupled with the Golden Gavel Awards as a strategic long term promotional vehicle and it is our intention for this Event to become a major part of a Statewide Training program. We have registered the name in Australia and New Zealand.